"Biblical Women," an exhibition
of story quilts by artist Lee Porter, will be on display at the
Smith College Alumnae House, 33 Elm Street, from Jan. 22 to March
30 with an opening reception and gallery talk from 5 to 7 p.m.
on Friday, Feb. 23. The Alumnae House gallery is open to the
public, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and there
is no charge for viewing the exhibit or attending the reception/talk.

In this exhibit, using textiles and
applique and quilting techniques, Porter depicts several scenes
of women from the Bible. According to Porter, women are often
relegated to background roles in traditional interpretations
of the Bible, while the men assume leadership and decision-making
roles. Through her fabric vignettes, these roles are pulled
into the forefront and women are seen engaging in activities
central to their communities, such as naming children, celebrating
victories and mediating disputes.

Porter, who has a master's degree in
theology as well as a background in art history and studio art,
says she was inspired to create "Biblical Women" by
the recent feminist trend in Biblical scholarship that is putting
greater emphasis on the role of women in the Bible. She is a
1960 graduate of Smith College.